The responsibilities and skills of college administrators and training needs and programs are discussed. After tracing typical career paths of administrators, skills and knowledge that they need are identified, based in part on similar positions from government, service organizations, and the military. The list of administrators' responsibilities also serves as a checklist for analyzing professional development needs. Specific responsibilities are indicated under the heading of visions, goals, and action; responsibility for operations; and responsibility for people. The different programs available nationwide are identified and organized into four types of models based on educational mission and goals and length: national institutes and internships; administrative conferences; conventions; and workshops, meetings, and seminars. Other ways to categorize programs include participant's job level, functional area, and content. Uses, benefits, and problems of professional development programs are also considered. Recommendations are offered for implementing a cohesive on-campus program to coordinate overall staff development, from middle managers to institutional leaders. 112 references. (SW)